Staying fit, staying healthy, living well.

Senior Health and Fitness: Take A Hike

You are not too old to hike. It might not be as easy as it used to be and you might not be able to walk as far, but you can still enjoy being outdoors. Hiking is cheap, easy to learn, and as challenging as you want it to be.

My husband and I hike every weekend. We may not be up to an eight mile loop anymore but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a day in the woods. Our goals are more realistic now, but there is no where else we would rather be. I think you will be pleased to know that waterfalls, alpine lakes, and amazing viewpoints can be found fairly close to home.

Be cautious. Hike with a buddy. There are articles in the newspapers every year about hikers getting lost or injured. Think about what would happen if you had a fall or unexpected chest pain. Share your passion with a friend or a group of friends. Senior Centers and Recreational Facilities offer group hikes at every level and provide experienced leaders. Don’t dismiss group senior activities because you think they will be too easy. Senior hikers are fit and goal orientated people and you may find yourself pleasantly surprised.

Fall is a lovely time of the year to hike, but it’s not a piece of cake. Rocks and protruding roots covered by leaves are slippery, as are overflowing stream beds. Be ready and be careful. Rocks hopping and log crossing are part of the game, but balance may be an issueif you haven’t hiked for awhile. It is frustrating not to be as fleet footed as you once were, but it is what it is. Balance can be an issue at any age, but muscular strength, fatigue, range of motion problems, and fear of falling are senior issues that cannot be denied.

Does that mean you shouldn’t go? No, but it does mean that you need to be mindful of unstable footing, poor visibility and fatigue. You may have to spend more time looking at you feet than up into the trees, but that is okay. Stop often to catch your breath and use that time to admire the view.

Be prepared. Equip yourself for every eventuality. Wear the best hiking boots that you can afford and don’t rule out the idea of trekking poles. Walking with poles may slow you down, but you will have an extra contact point if you need it. Take a backpack. You should have water, snacks, rain gear, insect repellent, flashlight, matches, navigational equipment, a first aid kit and a cell phone with you. Make sure your loaded is balanced both front to back and side to side so you aren’t being pulled off balance.

Hiking is a good workout; please don’t give up on Mother Nature because you are getting older. Breathe deeply and enjoy.